Servo motor systems are expensive but great for demanding applications that require high speed, peak torque, or feedback. Stepper motors are cost-effective but do not offer the peace of mind of feedback. For designs that do not need the bells and whistles of servo motor systems, there is another option.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Robotics, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, Servo Motors, Network
Pneumatic linear actuators and electric linear actuators are often compared for linear motion requirements that do not require the high forces of hydraulic linear actuators. Here are 15 factors that should be considered.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Linear & Rotary Actuators, Servo Motors
The best motor is the one that meets the application requirements. However, when both servo motors and stepper motors satisfy the basic requirements of a positioning application, it's important to have a deeper understanding of the two technologies to make an informed decision.
In this blog post, we will summarize the differences between servo motor systems and stepper motor systems, then show how advances in stepper motor technology are closing the gap.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Servo Motors, Network, Service Life
Which type of electric motor do you size for your conveyor, XYZ table, or robot? Before you select one, you must understand the characteristics of each type of motor in the market.
Topics: Conveyor, AC Motors, Stepper Motors, Speed Control, Motor Sizing, BLDC Motors, Washdown, Servo Motors, Motion Control Basics
Proper grounding is necessary for electrical devices for different reasons, but why do we do it?
Topics: AC Motors, Stepper Motors, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, BLDC Motors, Servo Motors, Cooling Fans, Motion Control Basics
Knowing how to use a product properly can make a huge difference in its performance and life. For example, knowing how to maintain cast iron pans properly can make them last longer. With electric motors, understanding the factors that affect motor life is the first step to extending life and decreasing costs in the long run.
Topics: AC Motors, Stepper Motors, Linear & Rotary Actuators, Speed Control, Servo Motors, Service Life
For someone who has never had experience wiring I/O for motion control, it can be scary the first time. If devices are not wired correctly, it can cause a range of issues from a motor simply not doing what's expected to irreversible product damage. I still get that nervous feeling before I press the START button on a demo. Murphy's Law, anyone?
Topics: AC Motors, Stepper Motors, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, Speed Control, BLDC Motors, Servo Motors, Motion Control Basics
The significance of position control accuracy of motors varies depending on the application. For an AGV in a farm with DC motor-driven wheels, position control accuracy is probably not as crucial as a surgical robot where incisions are controlled by servo motors or stepper motors.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Gearheads, Servo Motors, Motion Control Basics
Besides load torque, acceleration torque, speed, and load inertia, overlooking certain sizing parameters during the motor sizing process can literally make or break your machine.
Topics: AC Motors, Stepper Motors, Speed Control, Motor Sizing, Capping, BLDC Motors, Gearheads, Servo Motors, Motion Control Basics
Now that we understand the calculations behind load torque and load inertia, we're a little closer to motor selection. You might be wondering why I separated load torque and acceleration torque calculations. That's because in order to calculate for acceleration torque, load inertia and speed must be calculated first.
Topics: AC Motors, Stepper Motors, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, Speed Control, Motor Sizing, BLDC Motors, Servo Motors, Motion Control Basics